Pre-Admission Services Registered Nurse (RN)

This position specializes in comprehensive pre-operative patient assessments and risk evaluations to ensure optimal surgical outcomes and patient safety. This role focuses primarily on the pre-operative phase of the patient’s surgical experience, conducting thorough screenings to identify potential anesthesia and surgical risks through telephone consultations and in-person visits.

Essential Job Functions

• Clinical Care & Patient Management:
  • Conduct comprehensive pre-operative assessments via telephone and in-person consultations to evaluate patient readiness for surgery and anesthesia.
  • Perform systematic reviews of patient medical history, current medications, allergies, and previous surgical/anesthetic experiences.
  • Assess and identify potential anesthesia and surgical risks using evidence-based screening tools and established clinical protocols.
  • Evaluate patient’s physical, psychological, and social readiness for planned procedures.
  • Monitor vital signs and perform focused physical assessments as indicated during in-person pre-admission visits.
  • Recognize high-risk patients requiring additional medical clearance, optimization, or specialty consultation.
  • Coordinate pre-operative testing, consultations, and medical clearances based on patient risk factors and procedure requirements.
  • Make independent clinical judgments regarding patient readiness for surgery based on established protocols.
• Electronic Health Record Management & Communication:
  • Document comprehensive pre-operative assessments and risk evaluations accurately and completely in the electronic health record.
  • Monitor and triage messages related to pre-admission services in accordance with clinic protocols.
  • Provide telephone triage for pre-operative patient calls regarding clinical questions and procedure preparation.
  • Manage referrals and coordinate pre-operative consultations between specialties and primary care providers.
  • Communicate assessment findings and recommendations clearly to anesthesia providers and the healthcare team.
  • Process and coordinate pre-operative orders, laboratory results, and diagnostic testing.
  • Respond to patient portal messages and telephone calls regarding pre-operative preparation promptly.
• Patient Education & Support:
  • Provide comprehensive pre-operative education tailored to individual patient needs, literacy levels, and cultural backgrounds.
  • Explain surgical procedures, anesthesia options, and post-operative expectations in understandable terms.
  • Deliver written and verbal instructions for pre-operative preparation, including dietary restrictions and medication management.
  • Address patient and family concerns, questions, and anxieties regarding upcoming procedures.
  • Counsel patients on pre-operative medication adjustments and preparation requirements specific to their procedure.
  • Support patients in understanding informed consent processes and documentation requirements.
  • Facilitate patient understanding of post-operative care expectations and discharge planning.
• Team Collaboration & Clinical Support:
  • Support the organization’s mission, vision, values, policies, and procedures.
  • Collaborate effectively with team members to optimize patient care plans.
  • Work closely with anesthesia providers, surgeons, and nursing staff to ensure coordinated perioperative care.
  • Participate in multidisciplinary care planning meetings and case discussions regarding high-risk patients.
  • Communicate effectively with staff and other healthcare providers to ensure seamless care coordination.
  • Consult with and support staff in scheduling optimization and care coordination activities.
  • Maintain effective working relationships across multiple departments and service lines.
• Quality & Compliance:
  • Adhere to all clinic policies, procedures, and safety protocols specific to pre-admission services.
  • Maintain compliance with regulatory requirements and institutional policies.
  • Participate in quality improvement initiatives related to pre-admission services and patient outcomes.
  • Identify opportunities for process improvement in pre-admission workflows and patient care delivery.
  • Monitor and evaluate patient satisfaction and outcomes related to pre-admission services.
  • Recognize and report potential safety concerns, near misses, or adverse events.
  • Ensure proper infection control practices during patient interactions and equipment use.
  • Participate in required education for programs applicable to the position.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.